Abstract: Objective To investigate the use of carotid ultrasonography in the intensity-modulated radiation therapy(IMRT)of upper esophageal cancer.Methods Sixty-eight patients with upper esophageal cancer were divided into group A(experimental group,34 cases)and group B(control group,34 cases).In group A,the areas were treated by IMRT on condition that lymph nodes metastasis was found.Both groups were performed by IMRT through a 5 field IMRT plan. Results There were no significant differences between two groups in total effective rate(P >0.05).The first and second year′s survival rate in group A and group B were no significant differences(P >0.05).The 3 years'rate in group A was distinctly higher than that in group B(P <0.05).The side effects of radiotherapy were mainly classified into grade 1 and 2.In addition,no significant differences were noted between the two groups.The fatality rate in group A was remarkably lower than that in group B(P < 0.05).Conclusion Carotid ultrasonography can be used as a basis of neck irradiation in IMRT of upper esophageal carcinoma,which can improve the 3 years′ survival rates with satisfactory recent curative effect and several tolerable toxic side effects.

Key words: esophageal neoplasms, ultrasonography, doppler, color, radiotherapy